Physical Wellness

The physical well-being team supports students through peer-led programs and education that make information about health and wellness accessible, welcoming, and free of judgment. We explore topics like nutrition, movement, and meeting basic needs while recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to health. Our programs are informed by eating disorder awareness and Health-at-Every-Size principles.

We know that everyone's goals, experiences, and needs are different, and that physical well-being is closely connected to other parts of wellness, including mental health. Our goal is to provide balanced, practical information and resources so you can make choices that support your own well-being in ways that work for you.

Check out some tips and resources for supporting your physical well-being below.

Movement and proper sleep help relieve stress and contributes to overall well-being.

  • Join our physical well-being peers for "Ducks Get Moving" and explore different opportunities to move your body around campus. Visit the Duck Nest Instagram @uo_ducknest to find out more.
  • The Duck Nest has resources such as sleep kits, which contain earplugs, a sleep mask, calming tea, and tips for restful sleep.

Physical well-being also is nourishing your body with food that fits your lifestyle, culture, and budget.

  • The Duck Nest hosts free cooking classes throughout the year. Follow the Duck Nest on Instagram @uo_ducknest to be the first to know about upcoming cooking classes, and to catch up on our Recipes of the Week.
  • We collaborate with the UHS dietician for nutrition programming and education. Stay updated on our upcoming events to get the chance to connect directly with a registered dietician.
  • Many students qualify for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides monthly funds for groceries. Connect with the UO Basic Needs Program for support, or students at the Duck Nest can assist you in signing up for SNAP and direct you to other free food resources in the community.
  • Don’t have a car on campus or want to save money on gas? You can get rides to affordable grocery stores in the area by signing up for the Duck Nest’s grocery shuttle. Find the schedule on the Duck Nest Instagram or sign up via Calendly.

Seeking support for eating disorders or disordered eating?

  • University Health Services can provide initial consultations and referrals for students concerned about eating disorders and disordered eating. Call 541-346-2770 or go to myUOHealth to schedule an appointment.
  • Eating Disorder Awareness and Support (EDAS) is a student organization dedicated to expanding eating disorder education, awareness, and resources at the UO. EDAS provides weekly peer support groups as well as resources and presentations for students and families. 

Prefer to not see your weight at health appointments? UHS takes "blind" or "closed" weights for all students. This means that students don’t see their weight when it is taken unless they specifically ask. The Duck Nest provides "please don't weigh me" cards for use in communities outside of UHS. This provides an easy way to communicate to providers who may not be knowledgeable about weight bias or eating disorder-informed care that you prefer not to be weighed, or to be weighed with consent without being shown your weight. You can pick up a "please don't weigh me" card in the Duck Nest.

Practice safe behaviors, establish preventative care, and manage chronic conditions.

  • Take care of your body with regular visits to your primary care provider.
  • Call 541-346-2770 or go to myUOHealth to schedule an appointment.
  • Reserve time in the Duck Nest Pod for a private telehealth appointment.
  • Students Impacted by Chronic Conditions (SICC) offers peer support for students who are managing health conditions/chronic illnesses. Connect with this student organization by following them on Instagram @siccatuo or on Engage.
  • Do you get your seasonal flu shot each year? Learn more about the required and highly recommended vaccines you can get at UHS.
  • Take care of your lungs. Find out how to quit smoking or vaping at the UHS pharmacy.
  • Feeling low on vitamin D during the rainy winter? The Duck Nest has sun lamps which simulate sunlight and may reduce the effects of seasonal affective disorder.

Want to get involved?

  • Look for position openings on Handshake for all the Health Promotion and Wellness student teams.
  • Attending events and programs regularly, as well as following us on social media, are great ways to get to know what we do and any opportunities to get involved or positions students can apply for.
  • Follow us on Instagram (uo_ducknest) or email us at ducknest@uoregon.edu.
  • Stop by the Duck Nest Wellness Center (inside the main entrance of the Student Recreation Center) and talk to our peers about resources or getting involved!